I am a registered nurse in Contra Costa County. I wish to highly commend you on your article, Cost of Dying, in the Contra Costa Times this Sunday. I am also sorry about the passing of your father. He sounds like a man such as my own dad.

I have wrestled, as a nurse, with these same questions you raise. Technology has far surpassed reason. I have told my relatives and friends that medical science has the ability to keep almost anyone alive, far beyond what they should have lived. It is a real dilemma and your article points out both sides of the issue very well. The doctor’s have this built in will to “save” lives along with the fear of lawsuits, and the patient and family are caught in the middle, at the mercy of these doctors and their own emotions. Where does reason and right and wrong come into the picture?

Thank you for the personal glimpse into your own father’s struggle, and your personal struggle. It is hard to be the one to “pull the plug.” This article seems like one that could win awards in time. I am sure it will be recognized in some way as excellent. You did your homework, along with the personal facts and feelings.